You act like he is a one way, one dimensional, offensive zone only player.... I'd argue he is one of the best back checkers on the team and he has better offensive instincts than anyone on the team not named Crosby, Malkin, Letang, Iginla, Kunitz, Neal or Dupuis (holy depth).

I like Bennett a lot. He just doesn't bring something they need more of to justify sitting anyone playing right now. They struck a good balance with the lineup last night and that's what I'd like to see them go forward with. The fourth line in particular needs to be more of a checking and grinding line.

MRandall25 wrote:Puck possession: Clearly you missed last night's game. The line of Adams-Vitale-Kennedy was all over the Isles' zone.

Speed: Doesn't matter in this case. Speed doesn't kill penalties, and the 4th line has plenty enough.

2 way play: Adams has this.

Youth: Irrelevant.

Pedigree: What?

Offensive Instincts: We're averaging 4 goals a game.

Size: Not really; not compared to Adams, anyway.

You're severely overrating Bennett.

MRandall25 wrote: Puck possession: Clearly you missed last night's game. The line of Adams-Vitale-Kennedy was all over the Isles' zone

Adams was the weak link on that line. Its just my opinion. Would you rather sneak Crosby/Malkin a double shift against a teams 4th line with Adams as a winger or Bennett?

2 way play: Adams has this.

Adams has 2 way play? no. When was the last time he set anything up offensively. EVER? He doesn't because he doesn't play a two way game. The thought of creating a scoring chance with a pass doesn't even enter his mind because thats not what he is paid for, which is fine! I'm not hating on Adams.

He plays the most simple game on the team, which is actually a positive quality but its not a rare talent. Block shots, forecheck, hit, backcheck.

Pedigree: What?

Whats not to get?

Bennett is the future, Adams might very well find himself on waivers in the next couple seasons. Bennett has a good chance of solidifying himself as a piece of the core. He needs experience.

Offensive Instincts: We're averaging 4 goals a game.

So? SORRY GUYS, Can't play Jarome Iginla! We were leading the league in offensive and powerplay percentage when we acquired him.

I was quite always posting that BB should get more ice time and start the playoffs. His play earned it. But he really struggled in the playoffs the first few games. Despitr the opening goal he contributed very little. At this point you have to go with the lineup from last night. If they advance he'll get more time.

Playing Jokinen or Bennett on the 4th line is completely pointless. They serve no purpose playing on a line that's supposed to generate heavy forechecking and a hitting game. Would you play Tanner Glass with Malkin?

Getting To My Game wrote:Playing Jokinen or Bennett on the 4th line is completely pointless. They serve no purpose playing on a line that's supposed to generate heavy forechecking and a hitting game. Would you play Tanner Glass with Malkin?

Third lines are generally considered checking lines. Fourth lines are often referred to as energy lines.BB does bring that.The biggest argument against Godrics point is the PK ability.I think there will be time to work BB into the lineup - game six in a series where you struggled to find the right chemistry isn't the time.